A QUICK-THINKING response by a member of the public led to five local men being arrested last Thursday night, following a break-in at St Peter's School in Little Green Lane, Wrecclesham. The Surrey Police helicopter, a police dog and targeted patrol units on the ground were all involved in the arrests, on a night when nearby Pilgrims Way Primary School in Weydon Lane had also received unwanted visitors. At around 11pm intruders climbed up onto the roof of Pilgrims Way Primary School and caused damage to the roof fitting in an unsuccessful attempt to move some copper wire. About 25 minutes later, four men were spotted entering St Peter's School. A member of the public called Surrey Police, a patrol unit arrived on the scene within a few minutes and the Surrey Police helicopter went up to locate the suspects and assist officers on the ground. Also involved in the operation was a Surrey Police dog which tracked some of the suspects. The men arrested were two 18 year olds, a 17 year old and a 16 year old from Aldershot and a 20 year old from Wrecclesham. They are currently on bail while police continue their inquiries. Dc David Pellatt said: "We have been experiencing a spate of lead thefts recently and we are doing everything possible to catch the offenders and bring them to justice. "I would like to thank the member of public who was alert to what was happening at the school and phoned police so we were able to deploy appropriate resources to the scene." Unfortunately for St Peter's School, however, there was a further break-in over the weekend. A stereo system worth £200 was stolen and thieves caused £250 of damage smashing a window to gain access. Police are appealing for anyone with any information to contact Detective Constable Russ Cannon on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference WV/ 08/609.
